A step closer to new homes in Sheffield after planning application approved

Sheffield Housing Company’s (SHC’s) masterplan to build 2,300 homes in the city over 15 years has taken a step forward following the approval of its planning application for Phase One.

The SHC partnership which includes Sheffield City Council, Keepmoat Ltd and Great Places Housing Group, was granted planning permission to build 305 homes, including 25 for affordable rent, across three projects in Falstaff (Parson Cross), Shirecliffe and Norfolk Park (Park Spring Drive).

These will deliver 142, 116 and 47 homes respectively. Building on the first schemes at Falstaff (Parson Cross) and Norfolk Park (Park Spring Drive) is scheduled to begin in July 2012 with Shirecliffe on course for next year.

Over the next 15 years, the remaining 2,000 new homes will be built in the north and south of the city, located in the neighbourhoods of Fir Vale, Manor, Manor Park, Arbourthorne as well as more in Parson Cross, Shireciffe and Norfolk Park. The second phase of development is scheduled to start on site in October 2014.

The homes will be high quality and energy efficient in schemes which will create new open spaces and help to build real communities, bringing together people from a variety of backgrounds. The homes in Phase One are available for sale and rent, with many built to mobility and wheelchair standards.

Sheffield Housing Company is committed to supporting the local economy and creating jobs in the region with nearly 50 jobs up for grabs in Phase One. Residents are being given the opportunity to find out more about the jobs available at two informal job sessions which will be held in both Norfolk Park and Shirecliffe/Falstaff in late June. These will give details about the construction site-related roles on offer, with 30 full-time jobs and 15 full-time apprentice positions available. The sessions will give people the chance to register their interest.

Councillor Harry Harpham, Sheffield City Council's Cabinet Member for Homes and Regeneration, said: “This new housing programme will give the city a significant boost over the next 15 years.  Not only will it help to meet the increasing demand for affordable housing in the city, but the buildings will be designed to be energy-efficient to meet modern environmental standards.  The construction work will also provide valuable jobs and apprenticeships for local people.”

David Ward, Regional Managing Director with Keepmoat, commented: “This is great news, which brings us to within touching distance of beginning work on this exciting project. It will not only improve the quality and choice of affordable homes in Sheffield but bring investment and jobs which, I am sure, will stimulate economic activity and community spirit.

“This was always our goal and we look forward to working with our partners and local people to deliver positive change in the city.”